20th October 2026
The Southern Trust’s Medical Education Team is delighted to congratulate five outstanding colleagues recognised in the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) SAS Recognition Awards 2026.
The awards celebrate the exceptional contribution of Specialty and Associate Specialist (SAS) doctors to education, training and patient care across Northern Ireland.
Dr Debbie Cullen, Foundation Programme Director, was nominated for the SAS Postgraduate Educator Award for her dedication to supporting and developing doctors in training. Her commitment to postgraduate medical education has helped foundation doctors achieve their learning goals and build confidence in clinical practice.
The Trust is especially proud of Dr Danielle Thornton, SAS Doctor, who won the SAS Undergraduate Educator Award. Her passion for teaching and mentorship, and her ability to create positive learning experiences, have had a lasting impact on the next generation of doctors training within the Trust.
Dr Claire Carson, Specialty Doctor in Rheumatology and Queen’s University Belfast 3rd Year Undergraduate Lead for Medicine, was also nominated for the SAS Undergraduate Educator Award. She is widely respected for her dedication to undergraduate medical education and for inspiring students through her enthusiasm, expertise and learner-focused approach.
Susim Kumar
Marianne Rice
Mr Susim Kumar and Ms Marianne Rice were also nominated for the SAS Undergraduate Educator Award for their dedicated teaching of QUB 3rd and Final Year surgical students on placement at Daisy Hill Hospital. The nominations reflect the high standard of guidance and encouragement they offer medical students, as well as their important role in fostering an excellent learning environment within the Southern Trust.
Congratulating the award winners, Dr Stephen Austin, Trust Medical Director, said:
“These achievements reflect the strength of medical education across the Southern Trust and our staff’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Regional recognition is a testament to the excellence, professionalism and enthusiasm of colleagues who go above and beyond to support learners.
“We warmly congratulate Dr Debbie Cullen, Dr Danielle Thornton, Dr Claire Carson, Mr Susim Kumar and Ms Marianne Rice on this well-deserved honour. Their achievements highlight the vital role of educators in shaping the future healthcare workforce and supporting the delivery of high-quality patient care for years to come.”
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Photo caption:
Dr Debbie Cullen, Foundation Programme Director;
Dr Danielle Thornton, SAS Doctor Medical Education
Dr Claire Carson, Specialty Doctor Rheumatology / QUB 3rd Year UG Lead Medicine